Trends in Research on the P2X7 Receptor: A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis

Chao Ren1,2,3,4, Jingjing Zhang5, Ting Yang1,2,3

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China.

Insights

Research on the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is growing, with significant contributions from China and the US. Future studies may focus on P2X7R

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), activated by ATP, plays a crucial role in biological processes, including inflammation and disease pathogenesis.
  • Despite its clinical relevance, comprehensive bibliometric analyses of P2X7R research are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a bibliometric investigation of P2X7R research.
  • To quantify publication output, identify key contributors, and map geographical distributions.
  • To elucidate current research frontiers and emerging trends in P2X7R studies.

Main Methods:

  • Bibliometric analysis of 4551 articles published since 1985, retrieved from Web of Science using the query "P2X7R".
  • Visualization techniques were employed to represent complex bibliometric relationships.
  • Analysis included publication volume, author contributions, geographical distribution, and thematic mapping.

Main Results:

  • Publication volume shows sustained growth, with 4551 articles by 13,471 authors identified.
  • China leads in quantitative output (1871 articles), while the United States leads in international collaborations.
  • Thematic mapping identified key research areas: "P2X7R, inflammation, microglia" and "P2X7R, apoptosis, purinergic". "P2X7R, P2 receptors, oxidative stress" indicates future development potential.

Conclusions:

  • P2X7R research is expanding and shows increasing interdisciplinary integration.
  • The field is poised for new developments, particularly in areas linking P2X7R with P2 receptors and oxidative stress.
  • Bibliometric analysis provides valuable insights into the landscape and future trajectory of P2X7R research.

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